Damson Idris, the breakout star of the hit film F1, has received the Horizon Award at the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Honors, recognizing his rising influence in the entertainment industry. The award was presented by renowned producer Jerry Bruckheimer, signaling continued momentum for Idris following a critically and commercially successful turn in the motorsport drama.
Idris’s performance as rookie driver Joshua Pearce in F1, alongside Brad Pitt’s portrayal of veteran racer Sonny Hayes, captivated audiences worldwide. The film, which follows Hayes’s return to the sport and his efforts to save the struggling APXGP team, has exceeded $630 million at the global box office since its release in June 2025, demonstrating a significant impact on popular culture and sparking conversations about a potential sequel.
The Horizon Award acknowledges Idris’s trajectory from earlier roles in acclaimed television series like John Singleton’s Snowfall (2017-2023), as well as appearances in Black Mirror and Outside the Wire. His recent immersion in the world of Formula 1, as both an actor and observer, has clearly resonated with him.
“The early auditions, the rejections, the small wins that meant everything,” Idris shared, according to Variety. “And now to be here, the past few years, stretching me in ways I didn’t expect. Stepping into the world of Formula 1 recently, the scale of precision working alongside some of the absolute greats sharpens you. It reminds you to stay a student no matter where you are.”
‘F1’ Sequel Confirmed, Building on Box Office Success
The success of F1 has not only garnered critical acclaim but has also paved the way for a follow-up. Bruckheimer confirmed to the BBC that work is already underway on a sequel. “We’re working on a sequel,” he stated at the Academy Awards luncheon in Los Angeles. He also reflected on the challenges of bringing the project to fruition, noting the impact of industry strikes, but ultimately celebrating the film’s global appeal. “It was a long journey to receive the movie made because we had to endure a couple of strikes – but the movie entertained audiences around the world,” Bruckheimer said. He also expressed his enthusiasm for collaborating with Brad Pitt for the first time, calling it “a thrill.”
ABFF Honors Celebrates Black Excellence in Film and Television
The American Black Film Festival Honors, where Idris received his award on February 16, 2026, at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, is a significant event recognizing Black artists and their contributions to the entertainment industry. Founded in 1997 by Jeff Friday, the ABFF has become a leading platform for Black storytelling. This year’s gala also honored Dwayne Johnson with the Entertainment Icon Award, Angela Bassett with the Excellence in the Arts Award and Jennifer Hudson with the Renaissance Award, among others. Presenters included Jon M. Chu, Keke Palmer, and Michael B. Jordan.
The ABFF Honors, established in 2016, builds upon the foundation of the American Black Film Festival, dedicated to providing opportunities for Black artists and fostering diversity and inclusion within Hollywood. The event highlighted the importance of recognizing and celebrating Black creatives who are shaping the future of film and television.
What’s Next for Damson Idris and the ‘F1’ Franchise?
With a sequel to F1 officially in development, and Idris’s career continuing its upward trajectory, the future looks bright for the British actor. The success of the first film has undoubtedly raised expectations for the next installment, and fans will be eager to spot how the story unfolds. The continued recognition of Black talent through events like the ABFF Honors underscores the growing importance of representation and inclusivity in the entertainment industry.
What are your thoughts on the potential F1 sequel? Share your predictions and excitement in the comments below!
